[Cyber Liberty]

"Incidentally - there are a few bad-apples who have abused the abuse button. These are those who goad or bait people, until they get a response in kind - and then hit the abuse button to dispense with their foes and look angelic in the process. That scam worked for a while - but we’re wise it now."

I find this, along with the encouragement of use of the "Abuse" button later on, to be a bit chilling. Which is it, and what would one consider a "proportionate response?"

For instance, if someone says another poster is a fool or idiot, would that be considered "goading" if the second poster replies that he's been sleeping with both the first poster's wife and mother? Also, how do you know what is in the heart or mind of either poster involved?

Just asking...

[Lazamataz]

For instance, if someone says another poster is a fool or idiot, would that be considered "goading" if the second poster replies that he's been sleeping with both the first poster's wife and mother? Also, how do you know what is in the heart or mind of either poster involved?

Just asking...

That's it, pally, yer BANNED!

[Admin Moderator]

Flame wars get started, and after a while you learn who does that most often. We have a good history file. After a while, we write and ask for a change in habits. Raising the level of civility here is a reasonable goal, but not one we have been, or will be zealous about. A prod here and there, more than a stick, might help. All of us sweat the overbearing thing, and don't like it, particulary myself.

[Jim Robinson]

No, we can't read minds - nor would we want to. In the immortal words of a wizened Okefenokee swamp philosopher, "Those who steal my purse steal gold. Those who read my mind steal trash."

Just trying to do the best we can to keep the forum from spiraling downwards into a mass of flames, insults and vulgar postings (ala the news groups). Thanks very much for your support. Regards, Jim Robinson